Apple's iOS operating system is notoriously closed and straightforward. For the company, this is critical not just to ensure that its users buy apps and content, but also to guarantee stability and security. Of course, some techies are bound to disagree, and for this reason, "jailbreaking" was born. For those who do not know, this is the process of unlocking iOS devices so that third party apps and tweaks can be installed, allowing for more content and customization.
After several months of waiting, fans can now rejoice because iOS 9 has been successfully jailbroken. A Chinese group called Pangu announced a successful untethered jailbreak for Apple devices running on iOS versions 9-9.02. The jailbreak is in the form of a Windows software package available for download through this link.
Pangu provides users with a step by step guide to the process. The tool will work for iPod Touch, iPhone devices from 4S to 6s+ as well as the iPad Mini and the iPad Air. Once the Apple device is jailbroken, Cydia - the equivalent of the App Store - can be installed. Many of the apps and tweaks for download at the platform are not yet ready but modder enthusiasts say several are now on beta stage, according to Tech Crunch.
Some early users have noticed bugs in the jailbreak, particularly those involving the PreferenceLoader function, reported The Verge. This is expected to be fixed in later upgrades.
Before jailbreaking, users are advised to exercise caution. Jailbreaking terminates Apple's End User License Agreement. In addition, it can also expose devices to security vulnerabilities. Finally, while jailbreaking is legal in iPhones, it is considered illegal in tablets.
